SSTK: Robbie Brown offered Panigale chance

Ducati 848 Challenge front runner Robbie Brown is set to make his FIM Superstock 1000 Championship debut at Brno this weekend after being signed to ride a DMC Racing-prepared Ducati 1199 Panigale.

Finishing third overall during the inaugural running of the series in 2011, Brown has dominated proceedings in 2012, winning on six occasions to currently lead the standings by 62.5 points.

As such, Brown has been called up to replace the injured Alexey Ivanov at DMC Racing, where he will ride a Ducati 1199 Panigale alongside countryman Kev Coghlan at Brno and his home round of Silverstone.

"To be even offered this chance is just amazing,” he said. “I have worked hard all year in the UK and when I was offered to ride in Brno and Silverstone I contacted everyone I knew to get the support required to compete.

“Obviously my main priority is the 848 Challenge and I don't want to sacrifice that but it will be great to ride the 1199 Panigale to keep me fresh over the six week break between now and Cadwell Park. Brno is going to be treated as a test for me.

“I have never ridden the bike or the circuit so I just want to come away with some positive data to hit the ground running at Silverstone for the home fans. It's all credit to Ducati Manchester for making this happen and all the sponsors who have supported. I can't wait!”

Coghlan finished in a career-best sixth place last time out at Motorland Aragon.